Wind energy (or wind power) refers to the process by which wind turbines convert the movement of wind into electricity. Winds are caused by the uneven heating of the atmosphere by the sun, the irregularities of the earth's surface, and rotation of the earth.

How do wind turbines work?

A wind turbine works like a fan, but in reverse: instead of using electricity to make wind, like a fan, wind turbines use wind to make electricity. The wind turns the turbine's blades, which spin a shaft connected to a generator to make electricity.

How big is the wind turbine?

The size of wind turbines varies and is directly related to their designed electrical output. GWPL has commissioned various sizes such as 225 kW, 750 kW, 1.5 MW, 2 MW, 2.5 MW.

How are commercial wind farms developed and how can I get a wind farm on my property?

Commercial wind farms are built by wind energy developers using private sources of financing. Before installing turbines, the developer will assess the wind resource at a particular site by collecting meteorological data, determining access to transmission lines, and considering environmental and community impacts. If sufficient wind resources are found, the developer will secure land leases from property owners, obtain the necessary permits and financing, and purchase and install wind turbines. The completed facility is often sold to an independent operator (called an independent power producer) who generates electricity to sell to the local utility, although some utilities own and operate wind farms directly.

How important is tower height?

The golden rule is "the wind wheel must be 5 Metres above any obstruction within 100 Metres. The greater the height the smoother the airflow, which means the windmill will generate more.

How much noise does a wind turbine make?

With advances in the engineering and manufacturing of wind turbines, the noise generated by wind turbines has been greatly reduced. Any noise generated is usually from the mechanical components, electric power conditioning, and the blades moving through the air. All modern wind turbine manufacturers design their wind turbines with particular attention to minimizing noise.

How long does a windmill last?

The designed life of a windmill is between 20 years. However, well-maintained windmills have been known to last beyond that. Even after this time the machine is not finished as they are often re-conditioned and start their life over again.

What is payback period?

The generation of power is varying from season to season, month to month, day to day and minute to minute. It is 100% dependent on availability of wind, its speed and duration. When there is no wind or very little wind, the windmill is at standstill, does not rotate at all, hence no generation. The pay back will vary from place to place, from client to client.

What are the long-term costs associated with operation and maintenance of a wind turbine?

The Cost of Maintenance is very minimal and it includes Watch & Ward and Insurance.